Medicine | King Baldwin

4

"I appreciate this noble offer, but I must respectfully decline." Isabel replied, her voice soft yet resolute. With Jurian's departure to Egypt looming over her, she felt a deep sense of responsibility to remain in the poor quarter, to tend to her duties and obligations until his return.

Isabel felt an even greater need to stay behind, to keep watch over their shared home and ensure that everything remained as it should in his absence. The thought of leaving it all behind, even for a noble cause, filled her with a sense of unease and reluctance.

Arthur sighed as he walked closer to the girl. "My lady, I fear you misunderstand. This was not an offer, but a command." he said, his tone firm.

As Arthur's words hung in the air, Isabel's heart skipped a beat, her eyes widening in disbelief. A command? The realization sent a shiver down her spine, stirring a storm of conflicting emotions within her.

"As I've said before, I believe that with your help, we can find something. A cure." Arthur pleaded with Isabel. His words echoed in the quiet space between them, carrying with them a sense of urgency and desperation.

Isabel felt a flicker of empathy stir within her, sensing the weight of responsibility that rested upon his shoulders. Despite her initial reluctance, she couldn't deny the sincerity in his voice or the gravity of the situation.

Taking a deep breath, Isabel nodded slowly, her resolve solidifying with each passing moment.

"Very well, my lord." she conceded, her voice firm yet tinged with a hint of emphaty. "I have one condition." Isabel said, her tone measured, as Arthur waited with attentive anticipation for her continuation.

He raised an eyebrow inquisitively, a mixture of curiosity and respect evident in his gaze. "Pray, tell me, my lady." he replied, his voice gentle yet tinged with intrigue. "What condition do you propose?"

Isabel took a moment to gather her thoughts. "I require my belongings." she stated, her words carrying a weight of determination. "Before we go, I must ensure that I have all that I need."

"Of course, my lady." he acquiesced, his tone filled with sincerity. "I would expect no less. Allow me to assist you in gathering your belongings, and then we shall depart." Isabel nodded in gratitude, a sense of relief washing over her as she felt her request granted.

Isabel led Arthur and his men toward the humble cottage where she resided, a sense of familiarity washing over her as she approached the familiar surroundings. The soft glow of candlelight flickered in the window, casting warm shadows across the threshold.

As they reached the door, Isabel hesitated for a moment, her heart heavy with the knowledge that she would soon be leaving her home behind. With a deep breath, she pushed open the door and stepped inside, gesturing for Arthur to stay behind.

The cottage was small but cozy, filled with the comforting scent of herbs and hearthfire. In the corner, Bathilda lay sleeping peacefully, her form illuminated by the soft glow of moonlight streaming through the window. Isabel approached her bedside with quiet reverence, mindful not to disturb her slumber.

Isabel reached for a parchment and quill nearby, quickly scribbling a note to explain her sudden departure. She placed the parchment on the bedside table, ensuring that Bathilda would find it upon waking. With a final glance at her sleeping friend, Isabel turned to gather her belongings and making final preparations.

Though her heart was heavy with the weight of leaving her home behind, she knew that she could not falter in her resolve to aid King Baldwin and the kingdom that she now called home.

Isabel moved with purpose as she packed her few but essential belongings into a traveler's sack. Carefully, she selected herbs and potions, each chosen for its healing properties and potency. With practiced hands, she wrapped vials of tinctures and salves in cloth, ensuring their safe transport.